What happened
On 23 June 2021, a Jodel D120, registration G-BKAE, was conducting a private flight at Shacklewell Airfield in Stamford, Lincolnshire. The pilot intended to perform several visual circuits, planning to execute full-stop landings during each sequence. At the time of the incident, the aircraft was using grass runway 24 under light and variable wind conditions.
Upon completing the second circuit, the aircraft failed to decelerate at the expected rate. Fearing the remaining runway length was insufficient for a full stop, the pilot decided to transition into a touch-and-go maneuver. As power was applied to the engine, the aircraft experienced a leftward yaw. This movement caused the aircraft to veer off the edge of the runway and onto rough terrain, where it eventually came to rest on its nose. The pilot escaped the wreckage without injury.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the accident report submitted by the pilot. The examination focused on the sequence of the landing, the decision-making process regarding the aborted landing, and the aircraft's handling during the application of power. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft sustained significant damage to the propeller and the right landing gear, leading to it being declared damaged beyond economical repair.
Findings
- The pilot made a late decision to execute a go-around rather than completing the full stop.
- The pilot did not react quickly enough to counteract the leftward yaw when power was applied.
- There may have been a small tailwind component contributing to the increased landing distance.